Straiton Hard Iii

Straiton Hard, III passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 3, 2016 at his home in Decatur, Georgia after a long illness. He was 64 years of age. A graduate of Henry W. Grady High School and Georgia State University, Straiton spent his professional career as a manager of the Parking Company of America and also worked for The Atlanta Journal and Constitution for 17 years, being fully vested at his retirement in 2013. Known for his easy laughter, delightful stories, and generosity of spirit, Straiton found friends among all who knew him. As a recipient of a kidney transplant in 1989, he was active for many years with the Emory Transplant Support Program. He also participated in the Emory Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, becoming an avid table tennis player. This led to several enjoyable years of playing at the Dekalb County Parks and Recreation Center, winning medals in both singles and doubles tournament competition from 2003-2015. He also coached a gold medal winner in the Special Olympics of 2012. A just and loving man, Straiton brightened the lives of many and will be missed by those who were privileged to know him. He is survived by his wife, Deirdre Yvonne Hard, his son, Andrew Straiton Hard, his stepson, DeAndre Lamon Wilson, and by his sister, Virginia Hard Teague. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to the Foundation of Wesley Woods, Inc. designated to "Benevolent Care." A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2016 at Wages & Sons, 1040 Main Street, Stone Mountain, Georgia 30086. Visitation begins at 10 o'clock am before the 11 o'clock am Memorial Service.